Cheapest Nursing Courses in Australia for International Students 2025: Universities, Fees & Eligibility

Thinking about becoming a nurse and studying in a beautiful country like Australia? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely on the right track! In 2025, Australia remains one of the top destinations for international students who want a globally respected nursing degree without breaking the bank. With high-quality education, modern hospitals, and strong job prospects after graduation, nursing in Australia is a smart move for students from all over the world. Whether you’re planning to do a diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in nursing, this blog will guide you through the cheapest nursing universities, fees, entry requirements, and how to apply step by step. Let’s get started! 

Why Study Nursing in Australia as an International Student in 2025?

If you’re planning to pursue nursing abroad, Australia is definitely a country you should consider. In 2025, it continues to be one of the most popular study destinations for international students in healthcare—and for good reason! 

According to Study Australia, there are over 43,000 international students currently enrolled in nursing and midwifery courses across the country. This number is expected to rise as the demand for nurses in Australia grows by over 13% by 2026. Let’s explore why thousands of students choose Australia for nursing every year: 

1. Globally Recognized Qualifications: Australian nursing degrees are highly respected worldwide. Whether you’re pursuing a Diploma, Bachelor’s, or Master’s in Nursing, your qualification will open doors across the globe. Most programs are accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), ensuring your education meets international standards.  

2. Diverse Clinical Placements: One of the biggest perks of studying nursing in Australia is the real-world experience you gain. Universities partner with hospitals, aged care facilities, community health centers, and even rural health services—so you get to practice in a variety of settings. 

3. High Demand for Nurses: Australia has a shortage of skilled nurses, especially in regional and aged care services. According to the Australian Government’s Skills Priority List (2024), registered nursing is one of the most in-demand occupations nationwide. 

4. Work While You Study: With the student visa (subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and full-time during breaks. This allows nursing students to gain part-time healthcare experience and support their living costs in Australia. 

Top Universities Offering the Cheapest Nursing Courses in Australia [2025 List] 

Looking to study nursing in Australia without burning a hole in your pocket? Good news—there are plenty of universities offering affordable nursing degrees for international students without compromising on quality. Whether you’re going for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Graduate Certificate, these programs are packed with practical training, clinical placements, and strong career support.

Plus, Regional universities like James Cook University or University of Sunshine Coast not only offer lower tuition fees but also boost your chances for longer post-study work visas (up to 4 years in some locations!). Here’s a closer look at the cheapest nursing courses in Australia for international students in 2025: 

Nursing Course Fees in Australia for International Students 2025 

Let’s talk money—because budgeting smartly is just as important as picking the right course! Whether you’re aiming for a Diploma, Bachelor’s, or Master’s in Nursing, understanding tuition fees will help you plan better and avoid surprises later. 

In 2025, Australia offers a wide range of nursing programs with varying tuition fees depending on the level of study, university ranking, location, and duration. The good news? Many universities offer flexible payment plans, scholarships, and affordable options—especially in regional areas where living costs are lower too. Here’s a breakdown of average tuition fees for international students pursuing nursing in Australia: 

Eligibility Criteria for Nursing Courses in Australia for International Students 

If you’re dreaming of becoming a nurse in Australia, you’re not alone! Thousands of international students apply every year for nursing programs across Australian universities and colleges. But before you start shortlisting courses, it’s essential to understand what it takes to get in. Whether you’re applying for a Diploma of Nursing, a Bachelor’s degree, or a Master of Nursing, each level has its own set of admission requirements. Following are the eligibility criteria for nursing courses in Australia: 

Academic Qualifications: If you are doing a diploma or bachelor’s in nursing then it is mandatory for you to show completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum GPA of 5.5 or 50% in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, or Math are often preferred. In the case of master’s in nursing the students must show a recognized bachelor’s degree in nursing, Health Sciences, or a related field. Some universities may also ask for professional experience or current nursing registration in your home country. 

English Language Proficiency: All international nursing applicants must meet the English language requirement as nursing is a communication-intensive field. Here’s what’s usually accepted: 

• IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0, with no band lower than 7.0 (mandatory for Nursing & Midwifery Board of Australia registration) 
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum total score of 98, with specific minimums in each section (e.g., Reading: 24, Listening: 24, Speaking: 23, Writing: 27) 
• PTE Academic: Minimum score of 65 overall and in each communicative skill.  

How to Apply for Nursing Courses in Australia as an International Student?

Applying for a nursing course in Australia might seem overwhelming at first, but don’t worry—it’s a step-by-step process and completely manageable if you’re organized and start early. Whether you’re aiming for a diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s program, most Australian universities follow a similar application format for international students. Here’s a simple guide to help you apply for Nursing Courses in Australia as an International Student in 2025: 

• Research and Shortlist Nursing Programs: Start by identifying which nursing course suits your academic background, budget, and career goals. Think about things like tuition fees, course duration (1–3 years), location of the campus, and whether the university has strong clinical placement partnerships. 
• Prepare Your Application Documents: Once you’ve chosen your course and university, it’s time to get your documents in order. Most universities will ask for a completed application form, academic transcripts (translated into English if required), English language test scores (like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE), a personal statement explaining why you want to study nursing, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees. 
• Submit Your Application: You can apply directly through the university’s online portal, which is the most common method. Some universities in South Australia use SATAC (South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre), a centralized system that allows you to apply to multiple institutions. 
• Receive and Accept Offer Letter: If your application meets the university’s requirements, you’ll receive one of two offers: a Conditional Offer (meaning the university needs more info from you), or a Full Offer (you’ve ticked all the boxes!). To accept, you’ll usually need to sign an acceptance form and pay a deposit. After this, the university will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which you’ll need for your visa application. 
• Apply for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500): With your CoE, you’re ready to apply for your visa. You’ll need your passport, the CoE, proof that you can support yourself financially (around AUD 29,710 per year), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, and the visa application fee (about AUD 710). 

Conclusion

And there you have it—a full roadmap to finding affordable nursing courses in Australia as an international student in 2025! Whether you choose a regional university for its lower tuition or a major city campus with top-ranked facilities, you’re setting yourself up for a career that truly makes a difference. So, if nursing is your calling and you’re looking for quality education at a reasonable cost—Australia is waiting for you. Start researching, get those documents ready, and begin your application process early. Your journey toward a rewarding nursing career starts right here—and right now. 

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